Santa Lucia Parade in Copenhagen (Lucia I Kajak)

Looking to experience a truly unique Danish tradition? The Santa Lucia parade at Tivoli Gardens and Lucia I Kajak or kayak parade in the Copenhagen canals are a must-see. But what makes Saint Lucia Day so special, and how can you experience it as a foreigner or visitor?

I’ve experienced the Santa Lucia parade in Denmark firsthand, and I know exactly where to find the best celebrations. Having lived here, I can offer you the best insights on how to enjoy it like a local.

Ready to experience the magic of St Lucia Day? Let’s dive into this beautiful Danish celebration!

Who is Saint Lucia?

Saint Lucia was a Christian martyr from Sicily. She is known for her devotion to Christianity and her resistance to pagan practices during Roman rule in the 4th century.

Legends say that she wore a crown of candles on her head to light the passageway as she secretly brought food to Christians hiding in the catacombs.

She was punished and eventually killed for her strong beliefs in Christianity.

Over the centuries, the celebration of Saint Lucia’s Day has become popular in Nordic countries. Given that the holiday falls during harsh winters, the Saint Lucia tradition symbolizes the return of light amidst the long winter nights.

When is Saint Lucia Day Celebrated in Copenhagen?

Every year, on the 13th of December, Saint Lucia Day is celebrated across Copenhagen.

How is Santa Lucia Parade Celebrated?

Santa Lucia parade first started in Sweden and spread to Denmark in 1944.

In Denmark traditions, the Santa Lucia parade is the procession of young girls dressed in white robes, with a red ribbon on their waist. The lead girl or Saint Lucia wears a crown of candles while the other girls following her hold candles in their hands. They walk through the streets, singing the traditional Santa Lucia song. 

Many churches, hospitals, and schools celebrate Saint Lucia Day. The event holds a special place for many and is an important event of their December festivities.

Although Denmark is predominantly secular today, many Danish Christmas traditions still have strong ties to Christian history. Santa Lucia Day is no exception. For Danes, the day is less about religion and more about celebrating light, community, and togetherness.

What is the Santa Lucia Parade?

Two significant processions called the Santa Lucia parade take place in Denmark – one at the Tivoli Gardens and the other at the canals of Copenhagen (Lucia I Kajak or Lucia in Kayak). Several locals gather to witness the traditional event.

Santa Lucia Parade at Tivoli Gardens

Santa Lucia Parade at Tivoli Gardens starts at 17:30 on December 13th. The candlelit procession starts at the Swing Carousel and ends near Little Tivoli.

The Tivoli Gardens parade is the largest in the country. Hundreds of girls take part in the traditional procession every year. It was delightful to watch the girls singing the carols and marching forward in unison inside the Tivoli Gardens.

Santa Lucia Parade in Copenhagen Canals (Lucia I Kajak)

Lucia I Kajak (Lucia in Kayak) or the Lucia Kayak Parade is a unique Santa Lucia celebration in Copenhagen canals.

Every year on Saint Lucia Day, many kayakers, decorate their kayaks with sparkling lights and garlands.

The kayak parade starts at the Kayak Republic/ Kayak Bar at 17:00 and goes via Nyhavn, Christianshavn, Blox, and Højbro Plads, and ends where they started. The entire parade takes about 2 hours and ends at 18:45 or 19:00.

The kayakers will sing Santa Lucia songs at the stops near Nyhavn, Christianshavn, and by Højbro Plads.

They create a floating river of light through the Copenhagen canals. The reflection of light on the water makes the experience special in its own way.

The combination of the historic harbor, colorful lights, and the beautiful procession is unforgettable and a much-loved highlight of the St. Lucia celebrations in Copenhagen.

Arrive early to secure a good spot at Nyhavn or Christianshavn. The event attracts a huge crowd to watch the illuminated kayaks gliding through the water.

If you want to join the kayakers with Lucia, you need to book in advance.

Final Thoughts: St. Lucia Day and Santa Lucia Parade in Copenhagen

The Santa Lucia parade in Copenhagen is a celebration of light, warmth, and the festive community spirit that defines Danish culture. In this article, we also explored the significance and how it is celebrated in Copenhagen.

If you’re visiting Copenhagen in December, you cannot miss the Santa Lucia Parade at Tivoli Gardens and the Lucia Kayak Parade in the Copenhagen canals.

Looking for more things to do in Copenhagen? You should check out the must-do Christmas activities in Denmark.